Quick Answer
To make a WhatsApp video call, you need a smartphone with WhatsApp installed, an internet connection, and a contact who also has WhatsApp. Both you and your contact must have the video calling feature enabled in WhatsApp’s settings. As long as you both have these requirements met, you can start a one-on-one or group video call in WhatsApp anytime.
How Does WhatsApp Video Call Work?
WhatsApp video calling works by transmitting audio and video between you and your contact in real-time over the internet. When you initiate a video call, the WhatsApp app on your phone uses your camera and microphone to capture video and audio. This video and audio data gets compressed and transmitted over the internet to the device of the person you are calling. Their WhatsApp app decompresses the data and plays your video on their screen with the accompanying audio through their speaker. This happens almost instantly, which allows you to have a conversation with live video and sound.
The same process happens in reverse for them. Their camera captures video and microphone captures audio which gets sent to and decompressed on your device. This two-way transmission of data streams over the internet in real-time allows you to see and hear each other almost as clearly as if you were having an in-person conversation.
The technology that enables this is called Voice over IP (VoIP). WhatsApp uses advanced VoIP technology to optimize video and audio quality even when bandwidth is limited. This allows their video calling feature to work reliably even in areas with relatively slow internet speeds.
Requirements to Make WhatsApp Video Calls
To make a WhatsApp video call, both you and the person you are calling must have the following:
A Smartphone
WhatsApp is a mobile app so it can only be used on smartphones, not computers. You’ll need a smartphone with a front-facing camera to capture video of yourself during the call. Any relatively modern smartphone should have the necessary specs for WhatsApp video calling, including iPhones and Android phones.
WhatsApp Installed
You both need to have the WhatsApp Messenger app installed on your phones. WhatsApp can be downloaded for free from the App Store on iPhones or the Google Play Store on Android phones. Make sure you’re both on the latest version of the app.
An Internet Connection
Since WhatsApp calls work by transmitting data over the internet, you need an internet connection to make them. You can use a WiFi network or your mobile data plan. However, you’ll get the best call quality and reliability on a fast, stable WiFi connection. Cellular data may result in lag, pixelation, or even dropped calls if the signal is weak.
Video Calling Enabled
The video calling feature must be enabled on both your and your contact’s WhatsApp app. To enable it:
- Open WhatsApp Settings
- Tap Account > Privacy
- Turn on “Allow Video Calls”
As long as video calling is enabled for both parties, you’re ready to have a WhatsApp video chat!
A WhatsApp Contact
You can only video call contacts who already have you in their WhatsApp address book. Make sure you and the person you want to call have exchanged phone numbers and connected on WhatsApp before attempting a video call. There is no way to video call someone through WhatsApp if they don’t already have you added as a contact.
Steps to Make a WhatsApp Video Call
Once you ensure you and your contact meet the requirements outlined above, starting a WhatsApp video call only takes a few taps:
- Open the WhatsApp app and select the Calls tab.
- Tap the video call icon next to the contact you want to call.
- Your contact will receive a notification of your video call request. When they answer, the video call will start.
- To end the call, tap the red End button.
You can also start a video call while chatting with a contact. From an individual or group chat, tap the video call icon in the top right to immediately start a video call with that contact or group.
Up to 4 participants can join a WhatsApp video call at once. To add more people, create a WhatsApp group and video call the group. This allows up to 8 participants on the call.
Tips for Better WhatsApp Video Calls
Follow these tips for the best quality and experience on WhatsApp video calls:
Use a Stable Internet Connection
For smooth video and crisp audio, use a WiFi connection instead of mobile data when possible. Avoid making WhatsApp video calls when you have a weak or unstable internet connection.
Make Calls from a Well-Lit Area
Make sure you’re in a room with plenty of light so the person you’re calling can see you clearly. Avoid backlight from bright windows which will make you appear dark on camera.
Use Headphones or Earphones
Headphones with a microphone will free up your hands during the call and block out ambient noise. Earphones will also keep your call private from those around you.
Hold the Phone Stably and Upright
Use a phone tripod or prop up your phone so you don’t need to hold it for the entire call. Holding it stable and vertical will give the best framing in the video call.
Check Your Surroundings
Take a quick glance at what’s behind you to ensure your background is tidy and appropriate for the video call. Also make sure you’re in a quiet environment without too much background noise.
Clean Your Camera Lens
Gently wipe your phone camera lens with a microfiber cloth before the call to ensure your video is crisp, clear, and smudge-free.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Video Call Issues
If you’re having trouble making WhatsApp video calls, try these troubleshooting tips:
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Can’t start a call | Check your internet connection and restart your phone |
| Frequent call disconnections | Move closer to your WiFi router or switch to mobile data |
| Poor video quality | Improve lighting or switch from mobile data to WiFi |
| Echo during calls | Use headphones, lower volume, or mute when not speaking |
If issues persist, update to the latest version of WhatsApp or contact WhatsApp support for further help.
Conclusion
WhatsApp makes it easy to do face-to-face video calls right from your phone. As long as you have a smartphone with WhatsApp installed and an internet connection, you can call any of your WhatsApp contacts around the world for free. Enable video calling in WhatsApp’s settings, then tap a contact’s video call icon to start chatting face-to-face no matter how far away they are. For optimal call quality and reliability, use a strong WiFi signal, plenty of light, and headphones. With these simple requirements met, you’ll enjoy crystal clear WhatsApp video calls every time.